The United States authorities may ease the strict visa restrictions imposed on the Iranian national football team following an official complaint lodged by Iran with FIFA. Organizers of the World Cup barred the Iranian squad from arriving in Los Angeles two days ahead of their match against Belgium. Previously, the team was also prohibited from staying overnight in the U.S. to recover after their game against New Zealand, and eleven members of the Iranian staff were outright denied visas.
Andrew Giuliani, head of the White House’s World Cup task force, commented on the situation: “Everything is dynamic, and these issues are open for discussion. We want to ensure a level playing field. President Donald Trump aims to maintain competitive fairness while preventing the entry of dangerous individuals into the country.”
Iran’s head coach, Amir Ghalenoei, described his team as the most oppressed participants at the tournament, while captain Mehdi Taremi called the circumstances a disaster. The day before, FIFA President Gianni Infantino visited the Iranian dressing room and pledged to provide support.
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